Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

As we get older, the two important substances found in our skin that keep it smooth and supple, collagen and hyaluronic acid, start to diminish which cause the skin to lose structure and volume. As a result, unwelcome lines and wrinkles appear. We offer a variety of FDA approved fillers, including Restylane, Juvederm, and RHA for the correction of facial folds, lines, and revolumization.

Facial fillers are often used to add fullness to the lips and cheeks as well as to plump the face, helping to smooth out lines and wrinkles. There are a variety of synthetic and biocompatible dermal fillers on the market and approved by the FDA. Biocompatible fillers often contain ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, which is very much like what’s already found in your skin. They typically work for six to eighteen months. Dermal fillers can be done quickly with minimal down time. Results are immediate.

What are fillers, and how do they work?

The way your skin looks is directly related to the way your skin is supported. As we age, the natural support layers in the skin diminish resulting in the formation of wrinkles. Loss of bone over time also contributes to facial aging and volume loss. Two important substances, collagen and hyaluronic acid, form the foundation of your skin. Collagen is a protein that provides your skin with structural support. Hyaluronic acid is a natural sugar found in all living cells that attracts and binds water, hydrating your skin and giving it volume. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be injected deep into the skin to restore facial volume and give a youthful appearance. When injected more superficially, they can soften lines and folds.

What are my options?

There are several products used either independently, or in conjunction with each other to give you the most effective treatment. Hyaluronic acid treatments, such as Juvederm and Restylane add volume to your skin by mimicking the hydrating effects of your skin’s natural hyaluronic acid. These fillers are injected just below the surface of the skin temporarily adding volume, thereby filling lines, wrinkles and folds from the inside out.

Will the injections hurt?

In general, injections may cause some discomfort. The products are injected directly into the skin using a fine needle or cannula to reduce injection discomfort. Anesthetic creams, ice, and other techniques may be used to diminish discomfort. These will be discussed prior to treatment.

How safe are the injected fillers?

The injection process and injected fillers are very safe. The fillers have undergone extensive testing including scientific clinical trials to establish safety and efficacy. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, there are rare but potentially serious risks. Please be sure to discuss these with your provider prior to treatment.

What should I expect immediately after treatment, and how should I care for the treated area?

Immediately after the treatment most people feel comfortable in resuming their normal activities. Temporary puffiness or swelling of the treated areas should be expected. There may be temporary redness, slight bruising, and tenderness around treatment sites. A complete discussion of what to expect after fillers are injected as well as care of the area will occur prior to treatment.

Does the correction last forever, and if not, how often will I require treatment?

Correction is temporary and repeat injections are usually needed to maintain optimal benefit.